Boat naming ceremony, 16 November 2013

A cocktail party held on 16 November 2013 was a happy and special occasion as Old Boys, rowers, parents, friends and families celebrated the naming of 5 new boats. It was an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of outstanding High Rowing supporters. Boats were named in honour of –

• ‘Bernie Desmond’, mother of Barney (2002) and Pat (2009), took on the role of camp catering coordinator, including purchasing all camp food and supplies, for three years - that’s a total of 150 camps feeding 50 to 60 boys each meal! Bernie compiled the Rowing Camp Catering Handbook, and happily taught other parents the camp cooking routine.

• ‘Charles and Fabienne Ovadia’, parents of Edward (2005) and Eric (2011). Charles served on the rowing committee for 4 years, was medical officer, and a pioneer of the Senior January Taree camp. Charles and Fabienne were also actively involved in many school activities. Fabienne was the Canteen Committee Treasurer, and Parent Welfare Officer, for 5 years. She was also the Parent Rep on the Selective School Entrance selection committee for 8 years. Charles instigated the Parent Mentor

Program and ran it for 4 years, as well as the multicultural evenings such as the Chinese New Year and Big Night Out and ran them for 3 years.

• ‘Ollie Wilson’ (2002), a talented, committed and passionate coach to many crews over an 11 year period including coaching four School 1 st VIIIs from 2008 to 2011. Ollie also committed himself to the boatshed keeping the fleet and equipment functional, and motors serviced.

• ‘Cam Lyon’ (1963), an outstanding supporter of the school over many years, he has been serving on the Outterside Centre Management Committee as caretaker of maintenance for the past 7 years.

• ‘The High Club’, generously donated funds to purchase a MQR Double Scull/Pair. The High Club remains a significant financial supporter of many school activities.